Spectacular New Zealand

 Day 1 – Thursday January 30, 2025 - Home to Auckland
Fly away to a naturally beautiful island country represented by the flightless Kiwi bird, a symbol of wildlife and natural heritage of proud New Zealanders.

Day 2 – Friday January 31, 2025 - Enroute to Auckland
Crossing the international date line, we skip this entire day. (don’t worry – you get the day back on your return flight)

Day 3 – Saturday February 01, 2025 - Auckland
Kia Ora! Welcome to the City of Sails, Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. Check into your home away from home, rest and refresh and join your Tour Director and travel companions for a friendly social dinner. Take it easy this evening or try your luck at the only casino in Auckland, a stone’s throw away from your hotel.
Today's Dinner is included

Day 4 – Sunday February 02, 2025 - Auckland
This morning tour the city with a knowledgeable local guide who will take you through its remarkable history. Get to know the city’s features including the America’s Cup Village, the War Memorial, Queen Street and the impressive Auckland Harbour Bridge. Later go beyond the clouds for a panoramic view of the city from the iconic 328m high Sky Tower - the tallest building in New Zealand.
Today's Breakfast is included

Day 5 – Monday February 03, 2025 - Auckland – Waiheke Island – Auckland
After breakfast, take a scenic ferry ride across sparkling blue waters to the jewel of the Hauraki Gulf islands, the “Island of Wine” - Waiheke Island, with its delightful cafes, pristine white sandy beaches and award-winning wineries and olive groves. Taste your way around the charming island with distinctive varietals. Return to Auckland and roam like a local during this free evening.
Today's Breakfast& Lunch are included

Day 6 – Tuesday February 04, 2025 - Auckland to Rotorua
This morning we bid farewell to Auckland and journey south, passing through rolling countryside painted in endless shades of green. Our first enchanting stop takes us to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate underground passages, creating a celestial spectacle akin to strolling beneath starlit skies. Our journey continues to fascinating Rotorua where we're immersed in Māori culture at a traditional Hangi dinner, savoring both flavors and stories that connect us to this rich heritage.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 7 – Wednesday February 05, 2025 - Rotorua
Unforgettable in every way will be learning about the national icon, the Kiwi bird at the internationally acclaimed National Kiwi Hatchery. Entertain the kid in you by sitting in the giant kiwi egg or standing in the kiwi burrow built to human size. Next you will encounter a spectacular phenomenon, the largest naturally active geyser in the southern hemisphere. Marvel at the earth boiling, bubbling, and steaming with the world-famous Pōhutu geyser erupting 30m high into the air. Later we'll explore the captivating geothermal wonders of Whakarewarewa, where bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers paint a vivid picture of the Earth's raw power.
Today's Breakfast is included

Day 8 – Thursday February 06, 2025 - Rotorua - Tongariro National Park – Ohakune
Setting forth from Rotorua, our day's adventure takes us along a scenic route, with a captivating stop by the serene shores of Lake Taupo. Our journey then leads us to the sacred grounds of Tongariro National Park, a place of profound significance to the Māori people. Here, the towering peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu are not just majestic geological formations but also hold deep spiritual value. The park's rugged beauty becomes a backdrop for us to immerse ourselves in nature's splendor. Continuing our expedition, we find our way to the carrot capital of New Zealand, Ohakune, a quaint town at the southern end of Tongariro National Park.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 9 – Friday February 07, 2025 - Ohakune – Wellington
Our day begins with a delightful exploration of the Ohakune Railway Museum, where the past comes alive through vintage trains and rich displays that trace the evolution of rail travel. Stepping into this museum is like stepping back in time, a nostalgic journey that captures the essence of a bygone era when trains ruled the tracks. With each exhibit, we uncover stories of engineering marvels, the people behind the scenes, and the profound impact of railways on shaping communities. Then we bid adieu to Ohakune and embark on the next leg of our journey, which leads us to the vibrant heart of New Zealand, Wellington. As we traverse the picturesque landscapes, anticipation builds for the cosmopolitan charm that Wellington is renowned for.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 10 – Saturday February 08, 2025 - Wellington
After breakfast, visit the National Museum of New Zealand known as Te Pa Pa with vintage clothing collections dating as far back as the sixteenth century. Gain an in-depth knowledge of Māori cultural treasures and Pacific cultures. The museum also has the rare colossal squid specimen weighing 495 kilograms and 14ft. long. This afternoon board a moving, historic landmark, the Wellington Cable Car, a funicular railway that rises 120 metres over a track length 612 meters through three tunnels and over three bridges. It is a short but fun ride and be camera ready for some stunning views of Wellington as you go up, up and away.
Today's Breakfast is included

Day 11 – Sunday February 09, 2025 - Wellington to Blenheim
Today marks the transition from the North Island to the South Island, as we embark on a voyage across the Cook Strait, navigating through its rugged beauty on a mesmerizing coastal ferry route from Wellington to Picton. Keep your eyes peeled for the graceful presence of native dolphins, the majestic spectacle of whales, the awe-inspiring sight of orcas, the graceful flight of albatrosses, and the playful antics of New Zealand fur seals – all of which may grace our journey. Upon arrival in the sun-kissed Marlborough region, you'll find yourself in a place where the forecast promises a 100% chance of indulging in the pleasures of wine. This area boasts the title of being the largest grape growing and wine-making region in all of New Zealand. Amidst its varied landscapes, you'll be treated to the finest in fresh seafood, locally sourced cuisine, and an array of flavors that create a symphony of tastes. Our stay for the night awaits in Blenheim, a mere hop, three sips, and a corkscrew's twist away from the heart of Marlborough's exquisite offerings.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 12 – Monday February 10, 2025 - Blenheim to Christchurch
Our day begins with a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, where an exceptional collection of WW1 and WW2 aircraft shares the bravery of yesteryears. Journey through Glacier Country, where the road unveils stunning mountain vistas painted by nature's hand. En route, stop at the 1842 Fyffe House, a historic gem built on whalebones, and immerse yourself in Kaikoura's seaside charm. As you continue, Christchurch emerges as a captivating destination – the South Island's largest city beckoning with modern energy and timeless allure.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 13 – Tuesday February 11, 2025 - Christchurch
This morning is free for you to rest, recapture or get some retail therapy at one of the epic shopping malls in the city. In the afternoon, set out on a city tour of New Zealand’s oldest city. Visit the historic sites and seaside suburbs. Visit the unusual Cardboard Cathedral and see the poignant 185 empty white chairs earthquake memorial. A Gondola ride will give you unparalleled views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, the Southern Alps and the waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Today's Breakfast is included

Day 14 – Wednesday February 12, 2025 - Christchurch to Wanaka
From the largest city to Wanaka, the alpine town grown by a tree. Today’s drive sweeps you through changing landscapes – from the coastal charm of Christchurch to the rolling hills and serene lakes that frame your path. As you traverse this enchanting route, you'll witness the splendor of New Zealand's South Island unfold before you. Arrive in Wanaka with spectacular views of the Southern Alps and see that Wanaka Tree, also known as the Wanaka willow and claimed to be New Zealand’s most famous tree.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 15 – Thursday February 13, 2025 - Wanaka to Queenstown
This morning visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm, where aromatic fields spread a tapestry of color and fragrance. After immersing in these sensory delights, Wanaka awaits, a realm for wandering and wonder, offering vistas of the majestic Southern Alps, serene aquamarine lakes, and lush emerald forests. Our next stop this afternoon is the historic Arrowtown which sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush and grew quickly as pioneers constructed cottages, shops, hotels and churches, more than 60 of which can still be seen today. Later we depart for Queenstown, just 30 minutes away.
Today's Breakfast is included

Day 16 – Friday February 14, 2025 - Queenstown
Surrounded by a range of mountains, we will uncover Queenstown. Only in New Zealand is the unique Manuka tree producing Manuka honey - known to contain bioactive healing properties. A sweet way to remember your friends and family at home with some honey candles and soaps good enough to eat. If you are an intrepid travelling, spin your own honeycomb for a buzz. Later set sail aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw, the only remaining commercial coal-fired steamer operating in the southern hemisphere. Away from bustling Queenstown, enjoy a stop at Walter Peak High Country Farm where you’ll be entertained by the farm demonstration, see the farm dogs at work and experience rural life.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 17 – Saturday February 15, 2025 - Queenstown – Milford Sound - Te Anau
Departing from the enchanting town of Queenstown, we set out on a captivating road trip to Milford Sound. The drive will be a scenic adventure, as we wind through lush landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. The drive takes us through the majestic Fiordland National Park, offering vistas of unparalleled beauty. Upon arrival in Milford Sound, prepare to be awestruck by the sheer beauty of the fjords as we embark on a scenic cruise, an immersive experience that allows you to witness the grandeur of nature and perhaps spot some local wildlife. After this unforgettable voyage, continue your travels, heading towards the charming town of Te Anau. Upon reaching Te Anau, unwind and savor a delightful farewell dinner at one of the town's inviting restaurants, where you can relish the flavors of New Zealand cuisine while reminiscing about your New Zealand adventure.
Today's Breakfast & Dinner are included

Day 18 – Sunday February 16, 2025 - Te Anau -Queenstown to Home
As we prepare to leave the youngest country on earth with the shortest human history, the memorable experiences and encounters will return home with us and there is only one word to describe New Zealand – spectacular!
Today's Breakfast is included